Advanced Placement

There is a stigma associated with AP courses that needs to be undone. Too often, AP courses are designated for “the smart kids.” What we fail to measure and understand is that any student is capable of taking an AP course provided he or she is willing to grow his or her intelligence. This requires work and effort, but is possible for all students. Please view the growth mindset video below which discusses this in more detail.

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses

The Advanced Placement Program, administered by The College Board, allows students to participate in college level courses and possibly earn college credit while still in high school. Secondary schools and colleges cooperate in this program to give students the opportunity to show mastery in college-level courses by taking the AP exam in May of each school year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of taking AP courses? The main advantage of taking an AP course is advanced preparation for college. Additionally, students who score well on AP exams may receive college credit while still in high school. The AP exams are given every year in May. Scores are reported to the colleges designated by the student and range from 1 (no recommendation) to 5 (extremely qualified). Each college determines the scores to be accepted for credit. Colleges may award three, and sometimes six, hours of credit per test. It is the responsibility of the student to check with the colleges in which they are interested in to see if they accept AP exams for credits.

What is the difference between an Honors and AP class? AP classes are college level courses that are more challenging and rigorous. AP classes require energetic, involved, and motivated students.

Why should I take an AP class? What will it do to my GPA? Students who succeed in AP courses generally do well in college as a result of rigorous academic preparation. AP classes are weighted on a 6.0 scale. If you do well, your GPA will not be adversely affected. However, it is not advised to take numerous AP courses without serious consideration and teacher recommendations. Doing poorly in an AP course will affect your GPA.

What AP courses/exams does Fuquay-Varina High School offer? Arts: Art History, Music Theory

English: English Language and Composition (11), English Literature and Composition (12)

History and Social Sciences: Human Geography, Government and Politics, Psychology, U.S. History, World History

Mathematics: Calculus AB, Calculus BC, Statistics

Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics

World Languages: German Language, Spanish Language

How much does it cost to take an AP course? There are no charges for taking an AP course at Fuquay-Varina High School. As of 2014-15, the state now covers the cost for students to take the corresponding AP exam.

If I take an AP course, do I have to take the exam? We highly recommend you take the AP exam. If you do poorly on the exam, your score will not adversely affect your chances of college admittance (but doing poorly in the course will.)